5 Minute Review – adidas adizero Takumi Ren 2

The Takumi series of shoes is designed with direct input from Master Craftsman, Hitoshi Mimura.

The original Takumi Ren boasted the use of premium materials in the upper (a different suede from all other adizero shoes) with adidas’ Torsion & Sprintframe systems blended into an outsole with a (claimed) 4mm heel drop.

205g for a US 8.5

The new version of the Takumi Ren comes in at the same weight as it’s predecessor. My size US 8.5 weighed 205g, a little lighter than many of the other lightweight trainers from other brands. And yes, the Takumi Ren 2 remains the ‘training’ model of the Takumi series.

Similar outsole to the first generation Takumi Ren. Minor difference in the tread pattern

With little to no information on the Takumi Ren (in English, anyway) available, I’m going to guess that they retained the same heel drop for the Ren 2. I tried both pairs on and it’s hard to tell them apart. That having been said, it seems that the outsole unit has remained fairly unchanged – the Takumi Ren 2 are close to ground, responsive and lightly cushioned. While the Ren 2 are no where near as stiff as the adios 2, you get plenty of return from them and you’ll definitely be trotting along with a spring in your step.

Lightweight mesh upper is thinner than on the original

The biggest difference in the new Takumi Ren seems to be in the upper. The lightweight mesh is thinner and more breathable than before. In fact, it is reminiscent of the Takumi Sen. The upper has taken on a bit more seamless technology especially around the toe box, so leaving your socks at home when you’re running in these will not be a problem. The more minimalist upper does have a trade off though. Compared to the original, the Ren 2 feel more comfortable with it’s soft, supple upper. However, even with what looks like a similar heel cup, the Ren 2 does not lock the foot in as securely. I experienced a small amount of heel lift in the Ren 2 where there was none before. This was not a big deal as I appreciated the additional comfort and a simple re-lacing of the shoe got the job done.

Pretty Sweet.

The Takumi Ren 2 feels like a good update. Personally, I am glad they went for a slightly more minimalist feel with this one. It makes the Takumi Ren 2 feel like a faster shoe that you would be happy to race in, but still has a bit more cushioning than a real racing flat. The Ren 2 is true to size and has a generous amount of space in the toe box. Experienced runners will like the Ren 2 for their faster sessions and tempo runs especially.

The Takumi Ren 2 retails for $199 and is available now in sizes US 6.5 – 10.5.

This is a limited release so please email us at [email protected] or call 64567868 to reserve a pair.